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Teeth Whitening Options

You, like millions of other American adults, would be happier with a whiter smile. If you’ve decided to finally go ahead and make a real effort towards brightening your teeth, you’ve probably encountered more options, methods and brands than you ever would have expected. Today, there are numerous ways to brighten your smile and the individual advantages of each aren’t always clear. To help you get a better understanding of the process and guide you through your decision, here is an overview of popular methods of teeth whitening and the resulting benefits of each.

• In-Office Teeth Whitening – In-office teeth whitening is typically completed in a single visit. For patients seeking dramatic results in a short period of time, a one-time chair-side whitening procedure is likely your best option. Since in-office teeth whitening is professionally applied and monitored, a powerful concentration of peroxide gel can be used safely and effectively. Chair-side teeth whitening is typically applied directly to the teeth and may or may not be accompanied by a specialized activation light—depending upon the brand. Most in-office teeth whitening procedures are completed over the course of an hour, which is comprised of several fifteen-to-twenty minute application intervals. The effects of in-office teeth whitening are long lasting, but additional sessions and home maintenance may be needed to maintain the effects or to counter especially stubborn stains.

• Professional At-Home Whitening and Custom Trays – This method of professional teeth whitening is completed at home through the use of two, custom fitted teeth whitening trays and a professionally dispensed peroxide gel. This option is best for individuals who prefer a gradual improvement that they can implement as it best suits their schedule. The prescription gel is not as powerful as the solution used for in-office teeth whitening procedures, but patients who are seeking effects of long-term, easily maintained smile brightness may favor this method compared to a one time procedure. You may even choose at-home teeth whitening with custom trays as a secondary treatment following an in-office teeth whitening. Many patents enjoy using both methods to maximize and maintain effects.

• Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening Products – Over-the-counter teeth whitening products range from toothpaste, rinses and surface strips, to household versions of professional methods like disposable whitening trays, brush-on-gels, and light activated systems. These mass-market products are less of an initial expense but the effects are limited and one-size-fits-all application tools may not provide the coverage and comfort you’ll experience with professional products. Over-the-counter whitening options can be used to maintain the effects of professional teeth whitening.  

Regardless of which teeth whitening option or combination of options you choose, good periodontal habits, a healthy diet, abstinence from tobacco products and other smart smile choices are very important for keeping your teeth healthy, as well as beautiful.